Chapter 1

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia

From Paul, Jesus Christ's apostle by God's Will, and brother Timothy, to God's Corinthian Church and all the Achaian saints:

2

Grace be to you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

Grace and peace of mind to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

3

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;

Blessed is God, Father of our Lord, Jesus Christ, Father of mercies, and God of comfort.

4

Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

He comforts us during our trials so we can comfort others in trouble with that same comfort which God gives us.

5

For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.

While we experience Christ's sufferings, we also feel consolation from Him.

6

And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer, or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation.

Whether we suffer or are comforted, it's for your consolation and salvation, which is strong in overcoming the same trials we suffer.

7

And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation.

Our hope for you is constant, as we know that you partake in the suffering and will join in the consolation.

8

For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life

Brothers, we wouldn't have you be ignorant of the trouble we had in Asia, where we were oppressed unreasonably, above our strength, so we were mortally despaired.

9

But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead

We felt a death sentence over us, that we shouldn't trust ourselves but instead in the resurrecting God,

10

Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver, in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us;

Who saved us from a tragic death, delivering us, and Who we trust to deliver us still.

11

Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf.

You also helping together by praying for us, that in return for the gift bestowed us on through many, thanks may be given by many on our behalf.

12

For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.

For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and Godly sincerity, not with material wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have spread our message in the world, and even more towards you.

13

For we write none other things unto you, than what ye read or acknowledge; and I trust ye shall acknowledge even to the end;

For we write nothing to you, other than what you have read and understood; and I trust you shall always continue to understand;

14

As also ye have acknowledged us in part, that we are your rejoicing, even as ye also are ours in the day of the Lord Jesus.

And as you have come to understood us partially, that you rejoice in us, as we will rejoice in you when we meet the Lord Jesus.

15

And in this confidence I was minded to come unto you before, that ye might have a second benefit;

And in this assurance I was inclined to return to you, that you might benefit a second time;

16

And to pass by you into Macedonia, and to come again out of Macedonia unto you, and of you to be brought on my way toward Judaea.

And to pass by this way into Macedonia, and to return from Macedonia through you, on my way back toward Judea.

17

When I therefore was thus minded, did I use lightness? or the things that I purpose, do I purpose according to the flesh, that with me there should be yea yea, and nay nay?

When I decided this, did I do so lightly? Or when I decide things, do I do so for material reasons, going back and forth between "yes" and "no"?

18

But as God is true, our word toward you was not yea and nay.

But just as God is true, our commitment to you was not wavering.

19

For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, even by me and Silvanus and Timotheus, was not yea and nay, but in him was yea.

For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, even by me and Silvanus and Timotheus, was not wavering, but embodies commitment.

20

For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.

For all the promises of God in Him are true, and embodied in him Amen, to the glory of God by us.

21

Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God;

Now He who established us with you in Christ, and had appointed us, is God;

22

Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.

Who has also committed us, and given the dedication of the Spirit in our hearts.

23

Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth.

Furthermore I call God as my witness, that it was to spare you that I had not returned to Corinth before.

24

for by faith ye stand.

For we do not want to rule over your faith, but rather are helpers of your joy, for you to stand on your own faith.

Chapter 2

Verse

King James Version

Proposed Conservative Translation

Analysis

1

But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness.

But I resolved to myself that I would not return to you with a heavy heart.

Rework "heavy heart"?

2

For if I make you sorry, who is he then that maketh me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me?

For if I make you sad, who is he then that will make me glad, but the ones who I have saddened?

3

And I wrote this same unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is the joy of you all.

And I wrote this to you, hoping against, when I came, that I would have brought sorrow to those who I should rejoice with; having confidence in all of you, that my joy is the joy of you all.

4

For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you.

For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote to you with many tears; not that you should be sorrowful, but rather that you might know the love which I increasingly have for you.

5

that I may not overcharge you all.

But if any have caused grief, they have not grieved me, but in some respect, and not to exaggerate, to you all instead.

6

Sufficient to such a man is this punishment, which was inflicted of many.

Such a man received the punishment he deserved, which was administered by many.

7

So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.

So instead you should forgive him now, and comfort him, otherwise a man like him could be consumed in sorrow.

8

Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him.

Therefore I beg you to confirm your love toward him.

9

For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things.

For this purpose I had written, so that I might put you to the test, and see if you are obedient in all things.

10

for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ;

When you forgive someone, I forgive them as well. For if I have forgiven anything, I had forgiven that person for your sake in the name of Christ;

11

for we are not ignorant of his devices.

Otherwise Satan would take advantage of us, for we are not ignorant of his ways.

12

Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ's gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord,

Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ's gospel, and a door was opened to me by the Lord,

13

but taking my leave of them, I went from thence into Macedonia.

I had no peace of mind, because I had not found Titus my brother. But taking my leave of them, I went from there into Macedonia.

14

Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.

Now thanks be to God, Who always leads us to victory through Christ, whose presence is recognized everywhere by us like a comforting scent in the air.

15

For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish

For we stand out to God as a sweet fragrance of Christ, among those who are saved, and among those who perish

16

To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?

To one group we carry the scent of everlasting death; and to the other the scent of everlasting life. And who is sufficient for these things?

17

For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.

For we are not like most, who corrupt the word of God, but instead are men of sincerity, and as men of God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ's name.

Chapter 3

Verse

King James Version

Proposed Conservative Translation

Analysis

1

Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?

Do we begin to praise ourselves again? Or do we, like some others, need epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?

2

Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men

You are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read by all men

3

Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.

For you are clearly seen as the living epistle of Christ through our ministry, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tablets of stone, but in the tablet of the heart.

4

And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward

And such trust have we through Christ toward God

5

Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;

Not that we are so self-sufficient to think that this comes from us alone; rather our abilities are from God;

6

Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.

Who has also made us capable ministers of the New Testament; not of the old law, but of the spirit, for the old laws alone lead only to death, but the spirit gives life.

7

But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away

But if the ministry under the old laws, written and engraved in stone, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not bear to look upon face of Moses for the glory of his appearance; whose glory was not meant to last

8

How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?

How can't the ministration of the spirit be even more glorious?

9

For if the ministration of condemnation be glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory.

For if the ministration of condemnation is glorious, the ministration of righteousness exceeds that glory by much more.

10

For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth.

For even that which was glorified is no longer so in this respect, because this new glory surpasses it.

11

For if that which is done away was glorious, much more that which remaineth is glorious.

For if what is now irrelevant was glorious, what replaced it is much more glorious.

12

Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech

Realizing then that we have such hope, we speak frankly

13

And not as Moses, which put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished

Rather than Moses, who put a veil over his face, so that the children of Israel could not directly see the eventual end of that which has now been abolished

14

But their minds were blinded for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ.

But their minds were closed, for to this day that veil remains in a literal reading of the Old Testament; the same veil that is removed through Christ.

15

But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart.

But even today, when the words of Moses are read, that veil covers their hearts.

16

Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away.

Nevertheless when one turns to the Lord, the veil shall be taken away.

17

Now the Lord is that Spirit and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.

Now the Lord is that Spirit and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.

18

But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.

And we, with uncovered faces beholding the glory of the Lord as clearly as if through glass, are made more and more like Him, by the Spirit of the Lord.

Chapter 4

Verse

King James Version

Proposed Conservative Translation

Analysis

1

Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;

Therefore seeing that we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not falter;

2

But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.

But have renounced the secrets of dishonesty, avoiding mischief, or twisting the Word of God deceitfully; but by making the truth known we commend ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.

3

But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost

But if our Gospel stays unrevealed, it is unrevealed to those who are lost

4

In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

In whom the God of this world has closed the minds of the unbelieving, otherwise the light of the glorious Gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, would shine upon them.

5

For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.

For we do not preach about ourselves, but of Christ Jesus the Lord; and consider ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.

6

For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, has shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

7

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

But we carry this treasure in clay jars, showing that the glory of the power comes from God, and from us.

"earthen vessels" = "clay jars". a metaphor for our mortal bodies created from the earth by God

8

We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;

We are troubled from all directions, but not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;

9

Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

10

Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.

Always remembering in our body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus might also be realized in our body.

11

For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.

For we who live are always risking death for Jesus' sake, that the life of Jesus might also be realized in our mortal flesh.

12

So then death worketh in us, but life in you.

So death may work in us, but life also works within you.

13

We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;

We share the same spirit of faith, and as it was written, I believed, and therefore I have preached; we also believe, and therefore preach;

14

Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.

Knowing that He Who raised up the Lord Jesus shall also raise us up through Jesus, and shall present us with you.

15

For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.

For all this is for your sake, that the abundant grace might, through the thanksgiving of many, contribute to the glory of God.

16

For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.

For this cause we do not falter; for although our mortal body may perish, the inner soul is renewed with each passing day.

17

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;

For our light suffering, which is only temporary, earns for us a far more significant and eternal measure of glory;

18

While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

As we focus not on the material, but on the spiritual, for material things are fleeting; but spiritual things are eternal.

Chapter 5

Verse

King James Version

Proposed Conservative Translation

Analysis

1

For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.

We know if this earthly tabernacle is destroyed, God has a greater building, not man made, eternally in heaven.

2

For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven

We are eager for it, and we wish to clothed by our heavenly house,

3

If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked.

so that we won't be found to be naked.

4

For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.

Those of us in the tabernacle groan, since we're burdened and want to be clothed, not naked, and mortality could be replaced by eternal life.

5

Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit.

Jesus, who has given us this, is God, and has also given we faithful the Divine Guide.

6

Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord

So always be confident and realize that while we have bodies, we are removed from the Lord.

7

(For we walk by faith, not by sight)

(Since we walk by faith, not sight)

8

We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.

We are confident, I say, and are willing instead to leave our bodies, and to live with the Lord.

9

Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.

Therefore we work on, such that, whether at home or away, we may be worthy of Him.

10

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that everyone may receive his due, according to what he has done, whether it was good or bad.

11

Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.

Therefore, knowing to fear the Lord, we convert men; and in this we are seen as sincere by God; and I hope we are also seen as sincere in your consciences.

12

For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart.

For we are not justifying ourselves to you again, but rather giving you reason to take pride in us, that you will have a response to those who take pride in appearance over what is in the heart.

13

or whether we be sober, it is for your cause.

For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God. If we are calm, it is for your sake.

14

For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead

For the love of Christ controls us; because we reason that, if one died for all, then all had been dead

15

And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.

And because He died for all, those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for the sake of Him who died for them, and rose again.

16

Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more.

Therefore we regard no man in the mortal sense. Though we once regarded Christ in the mortal sense, we no longer do.

17

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Therefore if any man lives for Christ, he is a new creature and the old has passed away; behold, everything has been renewed.

18

And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

And everything is from God, who has reconciled us to himself through Jesus Christ, and has given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

19

To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

That is, that God was in Christ, reconciling everyone to himself, no longer holding their sins against them; and hath committed to us the message of reconciliation.

20

Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

And so we are ambassadors for Christ, and God is reaching out to you through us, as we pray in Christ's name, that you are reconciled to God.

21

For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

For God had appointed Him, who had no sin, to stand for our sins; that we might find the righteousness of God through Him.

chapter 6

Verse

King James Version

Proposed Conservative Translation

Analysis

1

We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.

We then, as workers for His cause, beg you not to receive the grace of God in vain.

2

(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)

(For He had said, "I heard you when the time was right, and in the day of salvation have I helped you. Behold, now is that time; behold, now is the day of salvation.")

3

Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed

Causing no offense in any way, that the ministry could be blamed for

4

But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,

But in all things exemplifying ourselves as true ministers of God, through great patience enduring injury, hardship and distress,

5

In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;

In lashings, in imprisonments, in riots, in hard work, in sleepless nights, in hunger;

6

By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,

Oh Corinthians, we have spoken openly to you, our heart is opened to you.

12

Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.

You are not held back by us, but you hold yourselves back.

13

Now for a recompence in the same, (I speak as unto my children,) be ye also enlarged.

Now for the sake of fairness, (and I speak to you as my children), open your hearts as well.

14

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

Do not be tied with unbelievers, for what partnership does righteousness have with unrighteousness? What fellowship does light have with darkness?

15

And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?

And what harmony does Christ have with the Devil? What does a believer share in common with an infidel?

Changed "Belial" to "the Devil" since that name is not as well-known as Satan, Lucifer, Beelzebub, etc.

16

And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

And what agreement does the temple of God share with idols? For you are the temple of the living God; as God had said, "I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people."

17

Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,

"Therefore step away from them, and stand apart", said the Lord, "And do not touch unclean things, and I will receive you",

18

And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

"And I will be a Father to you, and you shall be my sons and daughters", said the Lord Almighty.

Chapter 7

Verse

King James Version

Proposed Conservative Translation

Analysis

1

Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

So with these promises, my friends, let's wash ourselves clean of all filth of body and mind, perfecting holiness in awe of God.

2

Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.

Accept us, for we have hurt no man, corrupted no man, deceived no man.

3

I speak not this to condemn you for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you.

I don't say this to condemn you, since I've told you already that you're in our hearts whether we live or die with you.

4

Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.

I speak with great boldness to you, and the great pride I have in you comforts me, bringing me great joy through all our hardship.

5

For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears.

For when we had arrived in Macedonia, we had no rest, and we were assailed from all side; with conflict around us and fear within us.

6

Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus;

Nevertheless God, Who comforts those those who are downcast, comforted us through the arrival of Titus;

7

And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.

And not only through his arrival, but by the news of how he was comforted by you; his telling us of your sincere desire, your sorrow, your eagerness to see; such that I rejoiced even more.

8

For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season.

For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not regret it, although I was sorry that this epistle had brought you sorrow, even though it was temporary.

9

Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing.

Now I rejoice, not that you were saddened, but that your sadness led to repentance for it was brought upon you as God's will, and that you were not harmed in any way.

10

For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of but the sorrow of the world worketh death.

For sorrow delivered in God's name brings the repentance that leads to salvation, and is not to be regretted, unlike the sorrows of the world that bring death.

11

For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.

For see what this Godly sorrow has manifested in you; what focus it has brought in you, what desire to be pure, what indignation, what fear, what vehement desire, what zeal, what readiness to punish evil! In all these things you have shown yourselves to innocent in this regard.

12

Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you.

Therefore, though I had written to you, I did not do it to show who had done wrong, or who had suffered, but that our concern for how you are viewed by God would be apparent to you.

13

Therefore we were comforted in your comfort yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all.

Therefore we were comforted by your understanding, even more grateful for the joy felt by Titus, because of how his spirit was restored by all of you.

14

For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth.

For if I have boasted of anything to him about you, I am not ashamed; but just as we have always been truthful to you, so was our boasting, made to Titus, nothing but the truth.

15

And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him.

And his deep affection for you only grew, as he remembered your obedience, and how you received him with with fear and trembling.

16

I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things.

I therefore rejoice that I have trust in you in all things.

Chapter 8

Verse

King James Version

Proposed Conservative Translation

Analysis

1

Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;

So, brothers, we'll tell of how God has bestowed his grace on the Macedonian churches.

2

How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.

How, though severely suppressed, their overflowing joy and deep poverty produced incredible generosity.

3

For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;

I recall that they gave up all they had, and even more than they had!

4

Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.

They prayed and prayed that we would receive God's gift, join the fellowship, and minister to the saints.

5

And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.

They did this, not because we hoped it. First they gave themselves to God, and to us by God's will.

6

Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.

In that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, he would also finish you in the same grace.

7

Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.

Therefore, as you have much of everything, in faith, utterance, knowledge, diligence, and love to us, see that you have much of this grace too.

8

I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.

I do not speak by commanding, but by the occasional forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.

9

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

For you know the boundless generosity of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, he for your sakes became poor, so that you, through his poverty, could be rich.

10

And herein I give my advice for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago.

And here I give my advice, for this is quick to you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago.

11

Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have.

Now, therefore, perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which you have.

12

For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.

For if there is first an open mind, it is accepted according to what that man has, and not to what he does not have.

13

For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened

For I do not mean that other men be eased, and you burdened

14

But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want that there may be equality

But by an equality, so now your abundance may be a supply for them, that their abundance may also be a supply for you so there may be equality

15

As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.

As it is written, "He who gathered much had nothing extra, and he who gathered little had no lack."

16

But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you.

But thanks are to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you.

17

For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you.

For he accepted the incitement, but being more forward, he went to you of his own free will.

18

And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches;

And we have sent the brother with him, whose praise is in the gospel in all the churches.

19

And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind

And not only that, but who was also chosen from the churches to travel with us with this amazing generosity, which we administer to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind

20

Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us

Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this surplus which we administer

21

Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.

Providing for honesty, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.

22

And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you.

And we have sent our brother with them, who we have often proven diligent in much, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence I have in you.

23

Whether any do inquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you or our brethren be inquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.

Whether any inquire of Titus, he is my partner and volunteer concerning you or our brethren be asked of, they are the messengers of the churches and the glory of Christ.

24

Wherefore shew ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.

Why show yourself to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.

Chapter 9

Verse

King James Version

Proposed Conservative Translation

Analysis

1

For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you

For as touching the ministering is to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you

2

For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many.

For I know the directness of your minds, which I boast of to those in Macedonia, and how Achaia was served a year ago; and how your zeal had inspired so many.

3

Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this behalf; that, as I said, ye may be ready

Still I have sent the brothers, so that our boasts about you in this regard would not have been in vain; namely, as I had said, that you are ready

4

Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting.

Otherwise if any of the Macedonians were to come with me, and find you unprepared, we (as opposed to you) would be ashamed of having boasted like that.

5

Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness.

Therefore I considered it necessary to reach out to the brothers, that they would go to you in advance, and prepare with you in advance against the unexpected, that you would be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness.

6

But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.

Because I tell you this; he who sows sparingly reaps sparingly, and he who sows bountifully reaps bountifully.

Explains that a good work ethic will get you far in life.

7

Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity for God loveth a cheerful giver.

Every man should give as his heart compels him to; not grudgingly, or out of necessity, because God loves a cheerful giver.

8

And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work

And God is able to cause all forms of grace to come upon you; so that you, always having what you need, may continue to do good works.

9

(As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor his righteousness remaineth for ever.

(As it is written, "He has dispersed abroad; He has given to the poor his everlasting righteousness.

10

Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)

Now He who provides seed to the sower accordingly provides bread for your food, and multiplies what you have sown, and increases the fruits of your righteousness;)

11

Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.

Being enriched in everything to all bountifulness, which brings through us thanksgiving to God.

12

For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God;

For the fulfillment of this service not only meets the needs of the saints, but is abundant in its thanksgivings to God;

13

Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men;

While by the testing of this ministry they glorify God for your proclaimed dedication to the gospel of Christ, and for your generous sharing among them, and to all men;

14

And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you.

And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the surplus grace of God in you.

15

Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.

Thanks be to God for His gratitude.

Chapter 10

Verse

King James Version

Proposed Conservative Translation

Analysis

1

Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you

Now I myself, Paul, ask you in the humble and gentle manner of Christ, being lowly in your presence despite being bold when away.

2

But I beseech you, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.

But I ask you, since I don't have to bold when I'm present, because I think I'll have to be toward some who act as if we live by the flesh.

3

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh

Although we walk in the flesh, we don't wage war for the flesh.

4

(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

(Our weapons of warfare are not sinful, but are made so mighty by God that they can destroy fortresses).

5

Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

Casting down speculation, and every lofty opinion held against the knowledge of God, and capturing every thought towards obedience to Christ;

6

And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.

And being ready to punish all disobedience, once your obedience has been pledged

7

Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's.

Do you only judge by appearances? If any man believes himself to be in Christ's service then let him reconsider this, since, as he is in Christ's service, so are we.

8

For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed

For while I claim more authority in this regard, which the Lord had bestowed on us for your benefit rather than your detriment, I am not ashamed

9

That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters.

That I am not the terrifying figure you would have expected based on my letters.

10

For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible.

"His letters", they would say, "are grave and powerful; but in person he is meek, and his speech contemptible".

11

Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present.

These people should understand, then, that as we appear in our writings from afar, we will act in person if we are here.

12

For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.

For we do not dare to number or compare ourselves with those who praise themselves by their own standards, for those who rate themselves only against each other are unwise.

13

But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you.

But we will not boast of things beyond our measure, but rather by the standards which God has given to use, a standard that applies to you as well.

14

for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel of Christ

For we do not exceed our mandate in reaching out to you, and in coming as far as this place to preach the Gospel of Christ

15

Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,

Not boasting of things beyond our mandate, that is, of other mens' effort; but in the hope, when your faith grows, that we will have grown with you in proportion to our own effort,

16

To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand.

To preach the Gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast of the works accomplished by others.

17

But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

But he who boasts, let him boast of the Lord.

18

For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.

For it is not the one who praises himself that is righteous, but the one who is praised by the Lord.

Chapter 11

Verse

King James Version

Proposed Conservative Translation

Analysis

1

Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly and indeed bear with me.

God willing, please bear with me a bit in my recklessness, and continue to do so

ἀφροσύνη: "recklessness" is probably the best choice in this context

2

For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.

For I covet you in God's name, and betrothed you in marriage to one husband, presenting you like a sanctified virgin to Christ.

ἁγνός: "sanctified" is better than "pure", given the context of imperfection

3

But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

Yet I fear that, as the serpent beguiled Eve with his trickery, so also your minds might be corrupted away from the simplicity of Christ.

powerful phrase indeed; the "lest" is redundant" with the fear.

4

For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.

For if someone comes preaching another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if you hear of another spirit, which you have not received, or another gospel, which you have not accepted, you might stand firm with Him.

But though I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but we have been throughly made manifest among you in all things.

But though I be self-promoting in speech, not so in knowledge; we have made everything crystal clear to you.

good use of "crystal clear" here; the term "self-promoting" should be

7

Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that ye might be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely?

Have I done something wrong in lowering myself in order to elevate you, because I preached the good news of God as a gift to you?

8

I robbed other churches, taking wages of them, to do you service.

I robbed other churches by taking payment from them in order to serve you.

9

And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied and in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself.

And when I was with you and I was in need, I didn't financially burden any man, because the church members from Macedonia provided me what I was lacking. I have in all regards kept myself from being a burden to you, and I will continue to do so.

10

As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia.

As the truth of Christ is in me, no man in all of Achaia will stop me from boasting of this.

11

Wherefore? because I love you not? God knoweth.

Why? Because I don't love you? God knows I do.

12

But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we.

But I will do what I must, in order to deny the opportunity to those who would seize it, as if they are equal to us in what they take pride in.

13

For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.

They are false apostles, deceitful workers, posing as apostles of Christ.

14

And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

And no wonder; for even Satan himself poses as an angel of light.

15

Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

So it's no great surprise that Satan's ministers also pose as the ministers or righteousness; what they get in the end will be according to their works.

16

I say again, Let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet as a fool receive me, that I may boast myself a little.

Again I say, don't think I'm being foolish, but if you do, listen to this fool anyway, so I can boast about myself a little.

17

That which I speak, I speak it not after the Lord, but as it were foolishly, in this confidence of boasting.

When I'm speaking, I don't do it as the Lord would, but rather as fool might, because of my boasting from faith.

18

Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also.

Since many people take pride in worldly things, I will take some pride too.

19

For ye suffer fools gladly, seeing ye yourselves are wise.

For you tolerate fools easily, considering yourselves to be wise.

How to translate φρόνιμοι ὄντες•? Is it indicating reason (because you are wise) or concession (although you are wise)? KJV has the former, but the latter seems to fit context better.

20

For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour you, if a man take of you, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face.

You even put up with it if a man enslaves you, steals from you, takes all you have, looks down on you, or even hits you in the face.

21

I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. Howbeit whereinsoever any is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also.

It’s a shame, as though we had been weak. However, if others are bold, I will be bold too. (There I go again, speaking foolishly.)

22

Are they Hebrews? so am I. Are they Israelites? so am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? so am I.

Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they descendants of Abraham? So am I.

23

Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft.

Are they ministers of Christ? I’m speaking craziness again, but I am more of one. I do more work than they do, I’ve been beaten more than they have, I’ve spent more time in prison, and I’ve faced death more times than they have.

24

Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one.

Five times, I received 39 lashes from the Jews.

25

Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep;

I’ve been beaten with rods three times, I’ve been stoned once, I’ve been shipwrecked three times. I spent a night and a day floating at sea.

26

In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren;

I've traveled often, in danger of drowning, of robbers, of my own countrymen, of gentiles, in the city, in the wilderness, at sea, and from those who deceitfully claim to be church members.

27

In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness.

I've worked in fatigue and pain, without sleeping, in hunger and thirst without any food, in the cold without clothing.

28

Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.

On top of all those things, what weighs on me daily is my concern for all the churches.

29

Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not?

Who can be weak without making me feel weak? Who can stumble without making me burn?

30

If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities.

If I really need to boast, I will boast regarding my weaknesses.

31

The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not.

God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed forever, knows that I am not lying.

32

In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me

In Damascus, the governor under King Aretas guarded the city of the Damacenes in order to capture me.

33

And through a window in a basket was I let down by the wall, and escaped his hands.

But I escaped his hands by being let down the wall through a window in a basket.

Chapter 12

Verse

King James Version

Proposed Conservative Translation

Analysis

1

It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.

Boasting, though not helpful, is necessary. I will now come to visions and revelations of the Lord.

2

I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven.

I know a follower of Christ who, fourteen years ago, was caught up to the third heaven (whether in the body or out of the body, I can't tell; God only knows)

3

God knoweth;)

And I know that this man (whether in the body or out of the body, I can't tell; God only knows)

4

How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.

Was snatched up into paradise and heard unspeakable words which man is not allowed to say.

5

Of such an one will I glory yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities.

I will boast about someone like that, but I won't boast about myself except my weaknesses.

6

For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.

If I wanted to boast, I wouldn't be a fool; I'd be telling the truth. But I will hold back, so that no man will think of me other than what he sees or hears in me.

"It ain't bragging if you can back it up."

7

And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.

And so that I wouldn't become unsufferably proud by having received such an abundance of revelations, I was given a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan, to beat me down so that I wouldn't be insufferably proud.

8

For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.

Regarding this thing, I asked the Lord three times to take it away from me.

9

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

But He told me, "My grace is enough for you; my strength is perfected in weakness." So I will gladly take pride in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

10

Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake for when I am weak, then am I strong.

Therefore I take pleasure in infirmity, in criticism, in hardship, in persecution, and in distress for Christ's sake, for when I am weak, then am I strong.

11

for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing.

I have made a fool of myself over this boasting; you have made me do this, even though I should have been commended by you. For in no way am I lesser than the leading apostles, though I am a nobody myself.

12

Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.

Truly the evidence of being an apostle were shown to you through patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.

13

For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except it be that I myself was not burdensome to you? forgive me this wrong.

For was there any way in which you were inferior to other churches, except that I wasn't a burden to you as well? Forgive me for this wrong.

14

Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burdensome to you for I seek not yours, but you for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.

See, for the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be a burden to you for I seek nothing of yours. You as the children should not have to support the parents, rather the parents should support the children.

15

And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.

And I will very gladly spend and expend myself on your behalf; even though the more abundantly I love you, the less I am loved in return.

16

But be it so, I did not burden you nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you with guile.

But be that as it may, I did not burden you; nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you with deceit.

17

Did I make a gain of you by any of them whom I sent unto you?

Did I take advantage of you through any of the men I had sent to you?

18

I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? walked we not in the same spirit? walked we not in the same steps?

I had chosen Titus, and I sent a brother along with him. Did Titus take advantage of you? Did we not walk in the same spirit? Did we not walk in the same steps?

19

Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying.

Again, do you think we're defending ourselves to you? We speak before God in Christ but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your benefit.

20

For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults

For I fear, however, that when I come, I won't find you as I expect, and that you will regard me likewise, leading to debate, envy, anger, strife, recrimination, gossip, arrogance and fights

21

And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.

And I fear, that when I come again, God will humble me before you, and that I shall grieve over the many who have already sinned, and who have not repented of the filth, depravity and lechery that they have committed.

Chapter 13

Verse

King James Version

Proposed Conservative Translation

Analysis

1

This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.

So this is the third time I have come to you. Every word will be established by two or three witnesses.

2

I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare

Today I tell you, as I have told you before; I tell those who have sinned that if I come again I will not have mercy.

3

Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you.

Each of you seeks proof that Christ speaks from within me, which is not weak but mighty to you.

4

For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you.

Perceiving that he was crucified through weakness, we yet know that he lived by the power of God. We also are weak in him, but we will live with him through the power of God.

5

Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?

Hasten to understand yourselves, whether or not you have faith; prove yourselves. If you do not know yourselves, how will you know that Jesus Christ is in you?

6

But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates.

Each of you I trust is not a reprobate.

7

Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates.

Now I pray to God that none of you do evil acts; not for the sake of being approved, but so that you do that which is honest, despite being a reprobate.

8

For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.

For we cannot act against the truth, only in support of it.

9

For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong and this also we wish, even your perfection.

For we are glad, when we are weak but you are strong, and we wish continue to wish for this, and for your perfection.

10

Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.

Therefore I write these things while being absent, because if I were present I might be more harsh, per the authority the Lord has bestowed on me for purposes of edification and not destruction.

11

Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.

Brethren, farewell. Be perfect, of good comfort, of one mind, and live in peace. Do these things and the God of love and peace will be with you.

12

Greet one another with an holy kiss.

Great each other with a holy kiss.

13

All the saints salute you.

All the saints salute you.

14

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.

May the grace of Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost be with you all. Amen.